Summertime in Las Vegas means insects are buzzing around all the time. One of the most common insects you’ll see during this time of year is the wasp! Whether you’re used to seeing paper wasps in your backyard or yellowjackets at the park, you’re accustomed to wasp activity in the summertime. Different types of wasps build very different types of nests, making it important to learn how to identify them. That said, it’s crucial to never attempt a wasp nest, even if it appears abandoned. Stinging insects can be very aggressive when it comes to defending their nests. Keep reading to learn about the main types of nests you’ll see this time of year.

Where Do Wasps Build Nests?

Wasps certainly build nests on trees and buildings, but they can be found in other spots too. Yellowjackets favor areas near the ground, in hollow trees, under porches, and a number of other areas. Mud daubers tend to build their nests in sheltered areas, including under eaves, garages, attics, or on the sides of buildings. Paper wasp nests are often located under and within the eaves of structures, in attics and wall voids, and in other enclosed areas. Bald-faced hornets, on the other hand, like to build nests high up off the ground. This can mean in trees, but also on structures.

Identifying Types of Wasp Nests

Here in Las Vegas, we commonly see activity from paper wasps, yellowjackets, mud daubers, and bald-faced hornets. Here’s what their nests look like:

1. Yellowjackets. Likely the most common nest you may see, yellowjacket nests are a papery material and have a single opening. The inside of a yellowjacket nest can have up to 100 tiers of cells. Yellowjackets can also build underground nests that can be enormous in size.
2. Paper wasps. These nests famously look like upside-down umbrellas. Paper wasp nests are often open, and can get quite large in size. They are typically supported by a single stalk and consist of a paper-like material.
3. Mud daubers. True to name, female mud daubers construct their nests out of mostly mud. The nests are small and tubular in size, often looking like organ pipes. They are typically found in cracks or crevices.
4. Bald-faced hornets. These nests are almost always at least three feet off the ground. They are made of chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva. They often grow to be the size of a football or basketball.

How to Get Rid of Wasp Nests

If a wasp nest is built on or near your property, it’s important to take caution. Avoid going near it, and do not try to knock it down yourself. Certain types of wasps become much more aggressive if their nest is threatened, and they can sting you multiple times. Always contact the wasp control team at Western Exterminator of Las Vegas for help with wasps.